29 of The Best Staycation Ideas for Summer 2023

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Are you feeling limited by a lack of time, budget, or too many restrictions when planning a summer holiday? We understand your struggle, which is why we’ve put together a list of staycation ideas that will enable you to make the most of your time. Our summer 2023 staycation ideas for 2023 are suitable for everyone and can be done regardless of location. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural area, these ideas will help you create the best staycation experience.

In addition, a staycation can be an excellent way to save money while enjoying a relaxing break. You won’t have to worry about travel or accommodation costs, and you can create an itinerary that fits your budget. Furthermore, by staying close to home, you can explore your local area and discover new things you may have overlooked.

Some of the staycation ideas on our list include exploring local attractions, hiking or biking, having a picnic in a nearby park, or simply relaxing at home and indulging in some self-care. Whatever your interests, there’s something for everyone on our list of staycation ideas. So, why not try it and make this summer 2023 one to remember?

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What does staycation mean?

The term “staycation” is derived from the words “stay” and “vacation,” which means enjoying leisure activities close to home without traveling far. Staying at home and exploring nearby attractions is the primary essence of a staycation, and it may or may not include overnight stays away from home.

What’s the Benefit of a Staycation?

Although some people may believe that vacationing close to home or even staying at home isn’t a genuine holiday, this is far from true. Staycations are a highly beneficial holiday, especially when on a tight budget or facing restrictions. They are ideal for those who are pressed for time or have little interest in traveling overseas and would prefer to avoid the stress that can come with international travel.

How can I communicate that I am on a staycation and unavailable for work or other obligations?

The most challenging aspect of a staycation is that others may not acknowledge it as a genuine holiday simply because you haven’t gone far from home. Therefore, it’s your responsibility to inform them and take steps to detach yourself completely from your daily routine. One way to achieve this is by disconnecting from your smartphone, refraining from checking emails or work tools, and setting firm boundaries.

Can a staycation be as relaxing and rejuvenating as a vacation abroad?

Treating your staycation like a real vacation is essential to get the full benefits. To fully disconnect and unwind, avoiding checking your phone, setting alarm clocks, or reading work-related news is important. Additionally, don’t hesitate to indulge in activities or treats you would typically enjoy on a vacation, such as savoring ice cream, pizza, or other delights, even if they don’t fit into your regular diet.

How long does a staycation last?

The duration of your staycation is entirely up to you. Depending on your preference, it could be a single day, a weekend, a week, or even a fortnight. If it’s replacing your regular summer or winter vacation, you may consider extending it. However, the longer your staycation, the more crucial it is to plan it correctly to avoid monotony and boredom.

27 Best Staycation Ideas for Any Budget in 2023

Looking for some inspiration to plan your staycation? Check out our list of the 27 best staycation ideas for any budget in the year 2023. Whether you’re looking to relax at home or explore your local area, there’s something for everyone on this list.

1. Play Tourist in Your Hometown

Have you always had the desire to visit a specific museum, explore an uncharted district, or check out a recently opened attraction? Now’s the perfect time to do so! Reacquaint yourself with the most fascinating parts of your hometown and discover the unexplored. You never know what unique experiences and encounters await you.

2. Try a New Fitness Class

When planning a vacation abroad, most people tend to seek out new experiences. Similarly, you can try something different in your own city, such as taking a new fitness class, trying a mind-stimulating activity, or exploring an interest you’ve always had. You might consider signing up for a Bellydance or Zumba class or trying out a martial arts program. Whatever you choose, ensure that it’s a new experience for you.

3. Go on a Local Hike

Living in the hills or mountains is not a requirement for hiking; even a park or any natural setting can suffice. You need not feel pressured to set new hiking records; instead, focus on enjoying the environment and the experience. Remember to relax and take in the beautiful scenery around you.

4. Book a Spa Day

Consider visiting a local spa during your staycation to indulge in a massage or full spa package. You can choose to go alone or book a spa day with your partner or even with your family. Almost every city has a spa facility that caters to everyone, making it a great way to spend your staycation at home.

5. Plan Fun Activities

The notion of “fun activities” is highly subjective, but the possibilities are virtually endless. From a kayak tour to spending the day at a water park, there’s an abundance of options. So, pick the most appealing to you, and let the fun begin!

6. Visit Your Favorite Local Restaurants

In times like these, supporting the local economy is more important than ever, and the hospitality industry is among the most vulnerable. So, take some time during your staycation to appreciate your local restaurants, dine-in, and support them. Remember that while you’re on vacation, they’re working hard to serve you, so be kind and supportive to the staff.

7. Visit New Local Restaurants

While on your staycation, be sure to plan a visit to one of the newly opened local restaurants. Take time to check their reviews on Google, talk to your friends, and select the one that piques your interest. Who knows? It could end up becoming one of your favorite dining spots.

8. Volunteer at your local charity

Although a staycation may not be typically associated with volunteering, it can serve as an opportunity to give back to the community. Volunteering is an excellent way to remind ourselves of how fortunate we are and to give back to those in need. Consider treating your staycation as a chance to volunteer and positively impact your community.

9. Book a Personal Cooking Lesson

If you’ve managed to save some money and want to indulge yourself and your family during your staycation, why not book a private cooking lesson with a professional chef? You can learn to cook new dishes and even plan themed dinner nights, such as Italian or Mexican cuisine. It’s a fun and unique experience that the whole family can enjoy together.

10. Host a (Smart) Party

While hosting a party may not initially seem like an ideal staycation activity, you can make it work by playing smart. Consider hosting a potluck party where each guest brings a dish to share. You can enjoy the company of friends and family without the stress of cooking, leaving home, or spending much money. It’s an excellent way to relax, have fun, and create memories during your staycation.

11. Have a Picnic in the Park

Despite being a common activity in movies and TV shows, having a picnic in the park is not something people often do. So, why not try it during your staycation? You can purchase a full picnic set or pack a bag with a blanket, glasses, plates, cutlery, favorite foods, and wine, then spend the day relaxing in the park. It’s a simple yet enjoyable way to break away from your daily routine and enjoy the outdoors.

12. Go to a Hotel in your Town for the Night

Why not scour the city for the best hotel deals and book a night during your staycation? It may sound unconventional, but it’s one of the best things to do. Hotels often offer reduced rates for the day if they have unsold rooms, making it an excellent opportunity for locals to enjoy a change of scenery. Imagine indulging in a hotel breakfast the morning after and treating yourself to a little luxury at a fraction of the usual cost.

13. Plant a Tent in Your Backyard

If you have children, consider pitching a tent in your backyard and letting them spend a night (or more) pretending they’re camping in the summertime. You can even build a fire, roast s’mores, and tell spooky stories for an authentic camping experience. Alternatively, you can let your kids have fun in the tent while you enjoy your staycation as a couple for a few hours. It’s an excellent way to entertain the kids while enjoying some time to yourselves.

14. Visit an Amusement Park

While amusement parks may not be everyone’s cup of tea, why not visit the closest one and have fun if you’re a fan? Many parks offer admission discounts if you buy tickets online or are a local resident, so make sure to check for any ongoing deals and plan accordingly. Whether you’re into roller coasters, water rides, or carnival games, amusement parks are a great way to spend a thrilling day during your staycation.

15. Set Up a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts aren’t just for kids; they’re also a fantastic way to spend time during your staycation. Whether playing with friends, family, or just your children, it’s enjoyable for all ages. Set up a scavenger hunt by hiding treasures around your neighborhood or even your home, and give people clues that lead them to the next location. It’s a great way to explore your local area while having fun with your loved ones.

16. Hit the Beach

If you’re lucky enough to live near the sea, take advantage of it and spend as much time as possible at the beach. It’s one of the best staycation ideas out there! Even if you’re used to visiting your local beach and it’s not that exciting for you, you can always make it more interesting. Try exploring a different location or treating it as if you were on a tropical island. With a little imagination, a day at the beach can feel like a mini-vacation during your staycation.

17. Hit the Pool

If the weather is too hot, and you don’t live near the sea, consider visiting the nearest pool. For a more relaxing experience, choosing a hotel pool to avoid the crowds and truly enjoy your day is best. However, communal pools can also be a good option. Just grab a magazine, towel, and a refreshing cocktail, and you’re all set for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation during your staycation.

18. Host a Movie Night

Have a movie marathon at home during your staycation, whether just for yourself or with friends and family. You can choose a theme and run a few movies or stick to one film. Streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Apple TV are excellent resources for finding the perfect movie. And don’t forget to complete your movie night with some delicious snacks, of course!

19. Try Something New

One of the best parts of staying at home for your staycation is having the time to try something new. Ideally, you should go for something that may intimidate you and can challenge you. Whether it’s a rope course, a cooking class, or something else entirely, trying something new is a fun and exciting way to spend your staycation, and the options are endless.

20. Walk Free Around the City

For most of us, walking around the city typically involves having a destination in mind. During your staycation, try changing things up and start walking without a specific goal. This approach can open you up to new experiences and discoveries you may have missed otherwise. Take the time to appreciate your surroundings and let your curiosity guide you as you explore your city in a new way.

21. Learn New Recipes

Cooking can be fun and enjoyable, but everyday meals can become tiring and repetitive. Use your staycation to learn new recipes, challenge yourself with different types of cuisine, and have fun experimenting with new ingredients. You can follow online cooking classes using your laptop or tablet and then apply what you’ve learned to create delicious dishes during your staycation. You may even discover a new favorite recipe or cooking technique!

22. Learn New Skills

While traditional vacations are typically a time to relax and detox, staycations can also be an opportunity to learn new skills. You don’t have to feel pressured to learn something new, but instead approach it as a way to relax by doing something different and useful. For example, you could learn how to code, sew, print your own items using a tool like Cricut, or explore the basics of Korean beauty. You never know, this newfound knowledge could even lead to life and career changes. So why not take the opportunity to learn something new during your staycation?

23. Discover Local Producers

If you’re a foodie who enjoys being part of a community, why not use your staycation to discover new local producers? Whether it’s a small brewery, a cheese maker, or a bakery, supporting local small businesses is essential for them and us as consumers. Locally grown food tends to taste better and is often healthier, so it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved. So why not explore what your local area offers and support small businesses during your staycation?

24. Start Your Own DYI Project

During your staycation, why not pick a project that is not too expensive and start working on it? Whether painting your fence, rearranging your furniture, or tackling a small DIY project, anything that allows you to see a change in your daily life can be rewarding. The satisfaction that comes with starting and completing a project of your own is immense. And who knows, you may even discover a new hobby or passion that you can turn into a side hustle by selling your creations on platforms like RedBubble.

25. Take a Food Tour

Food traveling is a trend that has gained popularity worldwide, and it’s an excellent way to discover a new place. Even if you think you know everything about your city, there are likely undiscovered food places or hidden gems you haven’t tried yet. So why not take a food tour during your staycation and discover your city or nearby cities from a unique culinary perspective? You can either organize your own food tour or book a guided tour led by expert guides for a more in-depth experience. Either way, you’ll discover some new and delicious culinary delights.

26. Sleep

That’s right, you read it correctly: sleep! As you would on holiday somewhere else, prioritize sleep during your staycation. Getting enough sleep is essential for recharging and relaxing, and it’s a fundamental activity of every holiday. So, deactivate your alarm clock, sleep in for as long as you want, and don’t feel guilty about it. After all, getting a good night’s sleep is a respectable and well-deserved activity!

27. Explore the World from Home

If you haven’t left your house but still want to travel and explore, you can do so from the comfort of your home by booking online tours and experiences. This is a fun, affordable, and great way to experience different cultures and countries without leaving home. From virtual museum tours to cooking classes to language lessons, there are endless options available to satisfy your wanderlust and curiosity. So, sit back, relax, and let the virtual world take you on a journey!

28. Learn or Practice a New Language

If you’re seeking a unique staycation experience, why not learn or practice a new language? Just as you would immerse yourself in a foreign language while traveling abroad, you can do the same from your home. Numerous language learning resources, such as online courses, language exchange programs, or language learning apps, are available. You might even consider hiring a tutor on Italki, one of the best platforms to learn, practice and have fun. Not only will you gain a new skill, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with a different culture and expand your worldview.

29. Go on a movie tour

If you live near a city or location famous for its appearance in movies or TV series, why not take the opportunity to visit and explore it? Many people travel long distances to visit famous movie locations, but you may have one on your doorstep. It’s a fun activity that enables you to rediscover your local area during your staycation for 2023.

How to plan an enjoyable staycation?

Planning an enjoyable staycation is about being intentional with your time and activities. Here are some steps you can follow to plan a successful staycation:

• Set your budget: Determine how much money you will spend and stick to it. Remember, a staycation is supposed to be more affordable than a traditional vacation.
• Create a list of activities: Think about what you enjoy doing and create a list of activities you can do in your local area. Consider trying new things or exploring places you’ve never been to before.
• Schedule your activities: Once you have your list of activities, schedule them into your calendar. This will help you stay organized and ensure you have enough time for everything.
• Take time to relax: Don’t forget to schedule some downtime for yourself. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a nap, or binge-watching your favorite TV show, give yourself permission to relax and recharge.
• Disconnect: Disconnect from work and social media to enjoy your staycation. Turn off your phone and email notifications, and avoid checking work emails or messages.
• Treat yourself: Don’t forget to treat yourself during your staycation. Whether it’s a massage, a fancy dinner, or a new outfit, indulge in something that makes you happy.

Is a staycation worth it?

A staycation is worth it! Not everyone can afford to travel to a far-off destination, and that’s where staycations come in. Staycations allow you to take a break from your everyday routine and explore your local area with fresh eyes. They can also be more affordable, as you don’t have to worry about transportation costs or accommodations. Plus, staying close to home can support your local economy and discover new hidden gems in your area. So, a staycation could be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a way to relax and rejuvenate without breaking the bank.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase through a link.